Around 10 years ago I bought my current Vincent SA 31MK hybrid tube preamp. It has always been good especially when paired with the matching power amplifier the SP 331 MK. I went and bought it in a B stock sale, I was updating from my Rotel preamp in my second system . I actually bought the SA 31 list $1399 for $699. When I got it home it was not the same as on the box. It looked slightly different and had a remote control. I thought at first is was simply a Mk 2 version however eventually I went to Vincent site and found out its a totally different amp. The store was very local, less than 5 minutes drive. I went back and saw the young salesperson who seemed confused, however it could well have been embarrassment, he told be there were no B stock SA 31 MK's and A stock was $1699. I said what should I do. He went out the back, returned and said it's the last one we are not a dealer anymore, it's easier for us if you keep it. Still got it.
What are/were the best sounding cheap components you have ever had?
It is easy to like the best of the best, so to say. However it is always satifying and memorable when an inexpensive product turns out to be very good to great.
Some that come to mind from personal experience"
Large Advents (original)
Early Nakamichi SR receivers
Original Monster interconnects and speaker wire
Pioneer Pl-12 turntable
Shure M-95
Early Stax and Audio Technica headphones
MoFi "special" pressings
Magnum Dynalab Etude. Yes some were better, but a real value
The Absolute Sound mag in the beginning
Early Conrad-Johnson and Audio Research tube electronics
Early Classe integrated amps.
The original Sony Trinitrons
And there are others....but part of this hobby is enjoying the journey.
Have you had cost effective items that were successful for your enjoyment?
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- 110 posts total
- 110 posts total